From an outsider’s perspective, I have a pretty basic family, two older sisters whom I love and two amazing parents. Although, if we are talking about my entire family there is no way I can keep out the family friends that have watched me grow up because frankly, I consider them to be my “Honorary Family”. I mean who else can say they get two extra sets of parents and five additional older siblings to look out for them, all by choice? I swear when it comes to these people, I have learned so much and I am the luckiest girl in the world.

1. I have learned the power of a great dinner party.

I was taught from a young age that one of the best people skills to have was the ability to be a great hostess. Something about bringing people together over good wine, great food, and even better conversation made for a memorable night. Many of my favorite evenings with these people started with a lively dinner full of laughter and conversation and ended in a full-blown dance party, which is what we consider truly a successful night.

2. I have learned that if you want something you have to work for it.

No one in this big family of mine became successful by cruising through life. Each one of them inspires me to work just as hard as they did, persevering through tough times to reap the rewards of hard work. I continue to hold myself up to a standard where I could inspire those who will someday look up to me, just as I have looked up to my family.

3. I have learned what it means to go the extra mile for those you love.

Doing something you would regularly not do, and it does not matter if it is difficult because they are people you consider blood. The coolest thing about my family is how much they are here to support each other. The support through thick and thin makes me feel even more confident in my relationship with each and every one of them.

4. I have learned that cooking is a timeless skill.

To the women in the family, thank you. Thank you for teaching me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone, the significance of flavor, and value of a positive attitude (and a whole lot of butter). The fact that I know I could make a cake with no flour or an amazing green bean casserole is something I will always keep with me. I am proud of myself for already starting my cookbook collection, even though I know that I am going to steal those home recipes because let's be honest--those are the best. You taught me that cooking really does bring people together.

5. I have learned that all these people I call “siblings,” really do double as the best friend.

After spending dinner parties, graduations, sporting events, dance recitals, and now weddings together, the relationships and memories we have formed over these years create a bond that is impossible to break. Not to mention those secrets we hold as leverage against each other to avoid doing dishes during Thanksgiving.

6. I have learned that this group definitely does not limit the protective instinct you have over family.

The first time someone brings a significant other to our family gatherings is the real test. You have the approval of my parents but what about my other families? There is a 90 percent chance that we will ask you to dance and a 110 percent chance that if you break out the cabbage patch you will be fully embraced.

7. I heave learned what true love looks like.

I am lucky enough to now have five couples to look up to regarding healthy, full, respectful marriages. Each relationship is beautiful in their own way—these amazing people give me hope for finding the one (and keeping him).

8. I have learned how to follow a passion.

May that be sports, math, law, politics, fashion, or a passion for helping others, or the planet, I have learned that whatever you love to do, pursue it and never let others tell you differently.

9. I have learned the power of a prayer.

Through the good times and the bad, I have learned that sometimes things are out of your control. With that being said, over my 10 plus years of looking up to my honorary family, I have been taught that sometimes the best answer is to take a deep breath and pray.

10. I have learned that it is okay to be yourself.

With whom you love, what you do, or where you end up, this group will never shy away from being each other’s #1 fans. They are the closest thing to family I have in Washington and I would not want it any other way.

11. I have learned life is too short not to overuse the words “I love you.”

When I was younger I would be very meticulous when it came to using the “L word.” I would use it only when speaking to my two parents or siblings, maybe once or twice when talking to my best friend. As years went by I was embraced and loved by my honorary family members. There is not a time where I cannot remember being pulled in for a hug, kissed on the head and have been told, “I love you, girl” when I entered their homes. It seemed so natural to say, “I love you” to them because I knew that I meant it every time. These humans are some of the most happy-go-lucky people I know, I cannot imagine doing life without them.